How to work with collaborators
This guide shows how things usually go after you contact a “Can make”, “Can teach” or “Can advise” collaborator, until you receive a device, learn to make one, or get advice. Please check the actual process and costs with each collaborator.
Can make
Getting a 3D printed assistive device you want to try
Please check first
- Choose from the existing models published on COCRE HUB
- Ask for a print in the sizes you specify (for parametric items)
Collaborators cannot take requests to design a new device from scratch.
STEP 1
Ask whether they can help
Email
You
Tell them the device you want to use (model name or URL), the sizes you need and where you will use it (a short description is fine).
The collaborator
Decides whether they can help and replies to you.
Your request is not confirmed at this point.
STEP 2
Check the details and costs, then agree
Email or online
Check what they propose: model, sizes, material, cost, expected delivery and so on.
If everything looks fine, agree and they start making it.
Your request is confirmed once you are happy with the details.
STEP 3
Receive it and check the contents
Post or hand delivery
Receive the device by post or in person.
What is included
- The device itself
- Instruction sheets
- Data files (if needed)
What you receive is not a finished product but a tool that is meant to be adjusted.
STEP 4
Try it and share your thoughts (optional)
Email, etc.
Share how it felt to use the device in daily life.
If needed, ask about remaking or fine-tuning it.
Feedback is optional. Share as much as you can.
Can teach
Learning to 3D print by yourself
Please check first
“Can teach” collaborators help you become able to 3D print by yourself.
- Technical advice on your own printer (settings, failed prints, etc.)
- Hands-on sessions and workshops using the printers at their place
* Some support may involve a fee.
Making the device for you (when you want a finished product) is not offered. Please contact a “Can make” collaborator instead.
STEP 1
Get in touch and describe your situation
Email
What to tell them (examples)
- The device you want to make (type, what troubles you)
- Whether you have a 3D printer
- Where you are stuck (settings you do not understand, failed prints, etc.)
The collaborator
Reads your message and considers the best kind of support (technical advice or a workshop).
Your request is not confirmed at this point. Feel free to just ask.
STEP 2
Receive a proposal and check it
Online
The collaborator proposes support that fits your situation.
A. Technical advice
By email or online. They tell you how they will help, the scope and the expected cost.
B. Workshop or lesson
Online or in person at their place. They tell you the format, content, duration and fee.
Go ahead once you are happy with the proposal and the cost.
STEP 3
Learn and try it out
Advice or workshop
Technical advice
- Learn settings and printing tips for your own printer
- Understand why prints fail and what to watch out for
Workshop
- Operate their printer and print by yourself
- Get a feel for “I can make this myself”
The goal is not a finished product but skills you can repeat on your own.
Can advise
Talking with a specialist to find the best option
Please check first
“Can advise” collaborators are places where specialists such as occupational therapists give advice that fits your condition and daily life.
They think with you, from a professional point of view, about choosing a device, how to use it and whether to introduce it at all.
They will not necessarily make or 3D print something on the spot. * Some consultations may involve a fee.
STEP 1
Get in touch and describe your situation
Email
What to tell them (examples)
- What troubles you and in which daily situations
- An outline of your disability or condition (as far as you are comfortable)
- Why you want a device, and what you are unsure about
What the collaborator does
- Reads your message
- Decides whether a specialist should be involved
- Considers whether they can help
No detailed assessment yet. Keep personal information to a minimum.
STEP 2
Receive a proposal and check the method
Online, etc.
The collaborator suggests how the consultation will go and the expected cost.
Possible formats
- Online meeting
- In person (where possible)
What will be discussed
Choosing a device, whether 3D printing suits you, expected costs and so on.
This is professional advice, not a medical assessment. Go ahead once you are happy with it.
STEP 3
Talk with the specialist
Consultation
Talk about your daily life in more detail and sort out the best options together.
Possible outcomes
- An existing device is enough
- 3D printing is a good fit
- Not introducing a device for now
If needed, they also explain the characteristics of 3D printed devices.
The goal is the best choice for you. Deciding not to make anything is also a valuable outcome.
STEP 4
Move on to the next step
Finish or connect
Depending on the result, they suggest what to do next.
- Ask a “Can make” collaborator (to get a device made)
- Learn with a “Can teach” collaborator (to make it yourself)
- Look at models and resources
- Consult local services
It is fine to finish with the consultation only. You do not have to go on to making anything.